CUSTER, WA — A Rottweiler-Labrador retriever mix bit a child’s face this afternoon, causing injuries severe enough for the child to be taken to the hospital.

Animal control and North Whatcom firefighters responded to the 9100 block of Stein Road at about 5:50 p.m. after a report of a child being bitten in the face by a dog.

County Animal control confiscated the dog, which had been confined to a garage on the property. Several “beware of dog” signs were posted at the property line. A man who declined to speak with a reporter was covered in blood on his right shoulder and chest.

North Whatcom firefighter John Hollstein would not release the child’s name, age, gender or extent of wounds. The child was transported to St. Joseph Hospital.